Allied Health/Nursing Facility' celebrates grand opening

On Thursday, March 6 a large crowd of nursing program supporters gathered to watch the Allied Health/Nursing Facility grand opening ceremony at Mendocino College.? They didn't just watch and listen during the celebratory event, they gave more than $6,000 to support this year's graduating class of nurses.

College Superintendent/President Arturo Reyes welcomed guests to Mendocino College and thanked everyone involved in the project.? Reyes was followed by the director of the nursing program Barbara French, who described the facility and state-of-the art technology used in the facility.? Nursing student Amy Williams shared her experience in the program and her excitement at entering the nursing field.? The program culminated with Foundation President Richard Cooper's request for participation in the State Board Nursing Exam (NCLEX) campaign.?

The new facility boasts a 6,442 square foot simulation and practice lab.? Thanks to voter support of the college's Measure W bond funds were used to create the $1.9 million renovation creating a state-of-the art lab, new office spaces for the nursing department, a debriefing/conference room and nursing computer lab.

The newly remodeled facility resembles a contemporary hospital, including a nurses station, seating areas and private practice rooms.? Sliding glass doors in all four practice rooms assure students' privacy.? The two large simulation suites provide ample room for the new human simulators for adult, child and maternity cases, and there are recording/cameras throughout.

Guests were asked to consider a contribution to this year's NCLEX campaign.?

"The campaign began in 2012 with a generous donation by our late Foundation Director Albert Beltrami. We recruit sponsors to help fund each of our graduating nurse's National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) $400 fee," stated Cooper.

According to French, "For every month a nursing candidate waits to take their state board examination, their ability to pass goes down 24 percent.? It is absolutely critical that our graduates take the examination immediately following graduation.? The Mendocino College Nursing Program's pass rate is 95 percent while the statewide average is 85 percent."??

This year's NCLEX campaign goal was $8,400 which provides all 21 graduates with a check for $400 enabling them to immediately take their exam upon graduation.?

"I am thrilled to announce that we have met our campaign goal for our 2014 graduating class.? On behalf of the nursing students at Mendocino College, thank you to our generous donors and program supporters.?? We couldn't do it without you," stated Foundation Director Katie Fairbairn.?

For more information about the Mendocino College Foundation or to donate towards the scholarship program, call 707-467-1018 or visit foundation.mendocino.edu.